History

The Excelsior Shuttle looks a lot like the old NASA space shuttle, the big difference is that it makes use of a pair of fusion torch drives that let it reach orbit slowly from the surface. Two primary versions exist with one carrying passengers and another carrying fairly large cargoes. The passenger shuttle has a basic version and an executive variation that has less space for passengers but incredible levels of luxury.

They would go on to be used regularly even after the interstellar Space Era had ended as a convenient way to transport passengers and goods up and down a gravity well that lacks a orbital tether system.